Traditional Chinese Medicine

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Gentian Drain the Liver)

Provisional Moderate Scorebotanical

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Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang is a traditional Chinese herbal formula containing gentian root, scutellaria, and other herbs that support liver detoxification and reduce hepatic inflammation. The formula's primary bioactive compounds include gentiopicroside and baicalin, which work through anti-inflammatory pathways and bile acid regulation.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryTraditional Chinese Medicine

GroupTraditional Chinese Medicine

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary KeywordLong Dan Xie Gan Tang benefits

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Gentian Drain the Liver) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports liver health

Gentian root aids in detoxifying the liver, promoting optimal liver function. - Reduces inflammation: It contains anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe liver and gallbladder discomfort. - Enhances digestion: By stimulating bile production, it improves digestion and nutrient absorption. - Alleviates headaches: Its cooling properties help reduce migraines and tension headaches. - Balances mood: By regulating liver qi, it promotes emotional stability and reduces irritability. - Fights infections: Its antimicrobial properties help combat bacterial and viral infections. - Promotes skin health: By detoxifying the liver, it reduces skin blemishes and promotes a clear complexion.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Long Dan Xie Gan Tang is a traditional Chinese herbal formula featuring gentian root as a primary ingredient. Originating from the Ming Dynasty, it is designed to clear heat and dampness from the liver and gallbladder.

“Long Dan Xie Gan Tang has been traditionally used to address liver fire and damp-heat conditions, reflecting the deep cultural understanding of organ systems in Chinese medicine.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

While traditional use supports its efficacy in treating liver-related conditions, scientific studies and RCTs are limited. Some research suggests potential benefits, but more evidence is needed.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

{"macronutrients": {"protein": "Approximately 0.5g per 100g", "fiber": "Approximately 1g per 100g"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamin_C": "5mg per 100g", "iron": "0.4mg per 100g", "calcium": "10mg per 100g"}, "bioactive_compounds": {"gentiopicroside": "2-3% concentration", "swertiamarin": "0.5-1% concentration", "ursolic_acid": "0.1-0.2% concentration"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of gentiopicroside and swertiamarin can be enhanced when consumed with fats due to their lipophilic nature."}

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

The formula's gentiopicroside activates bitter taste receptors and stimulates bile acid synthesis through FXR (farnesoid X receptor) pathways. Baicalin from scutellaria inhibits NF-κB inflammatory signaling and reduces hepatic oxidative stress. These compounds work synergistically to enhance liver detoxification capacity and modulate cytochrome P450 enzyme activity.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Limited clinical studies have examined this traditional formula, with most research consisting of small observational studies (n=30-60 participants) in Traditional Chinese Medicine settings. Some studies report improvements in liver enzyme markers (ALT, AST) within 4-8 weeks of treatment. However, high-quality randomized controlled trials are lacking, and most evidence remains preliminary. The formula shows promise but requires more rigorous clinical validation.

Also Known As

Gentianae Longdancao DecoctionLDXGT龙胆泻肝汤Gentian Liver-Draining DecoctionLong Dan Cao FormulaGentiana scabra FormulaLiver Fire Clearing Formula

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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